Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner cut of meat. However, chicken thighs are recommended for their tenderness and juiciness. If using chicken breasts, be sure to monitor the cooking time closely, as they tend to cook faster than thighs.

How can I make the green sauce milder?

If you prefer a milder green sauce, simply reduce the number of jalapeños or remove the seeds and ribs from the peppers before blending them. You can also substitute the jalapeños with a milder pepper like poblano for a less intense heat level.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Both the chicken and the green sauce can be prepared in advance. Marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours in the fridge and store the green sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the chicken and serve with the chilled green sauce.

Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce: A Flavorful Delight

Name: Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Peruvian
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 5 cloves garlic, peeled; 1/3 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons lime juice; 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; 2 teaspoons cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; Black pepper, to taste; 3 jalapeños, seeds removed and roughly chopped; 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves; 2 green onions, chopped (green parts only); 2 cloves garlic, peeled; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Description

Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce (Aji Verde) is a flavorful dish featuring marinated chicken thighs grilled or roasted to perfection, paired with a tangy, creamy green sauce made from jalapeños, cilantro, and Greek yogurt. This dish is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, delivering bold and vibrant flavors that will leave everyone wanting more.

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
5 cloves garlic, peeled
1/3 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
2 teaspoons cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Black pepper, to taste
3 jalapeños, seeds removed and roughly chopped
1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
2 green onions, chopped (green parts only)
2 cloves garlic, peeled
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon lime juice
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

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Instructions

In a blender or food processor, combine garlic, soy sauce, lime juice, olive oil, cumin, paprika, oregano, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
Place the chicken thighs in a large ziplock bag and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or up to 24 hours for best flavor.
For the green sauce, combine the jalapeños, cilantro, green onions, garlic, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a blender. Blend until smooth. Gradually add olive oil while blending, then transfer to a bowl and refrigerate.
Grill the chicken on medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes on each side, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Alternatively, roast the chicken at 500°F for 30 minutes, then cover with foil and cook for an additional 15 minutes.
Serve the grilled chicken with the creamy green sauce on the side, and enjoy!

Notes

For a milder green sauce, reduce the number of jalapeños or remove the seeds and ribs.
If you prefer, you can swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts or any cut you prefer.
To check chicken doneness, use a meat thermometer. Chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
You can make the green sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
If the green sauce is too spicy, use only 1 or 2 jalapeños.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Grilled, Roasted, or Air-Fried
Cuisine: Peruvian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 731 kcal
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 1691mg
Fat: 60g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 48g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 39g
Cholesterol: 155mg